Scotland + Camping | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/scotland+camping
Indexen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Sun, 02 Aug 2015 22:40:33 GMT2015-08-02T22:40:33Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
10 of the best UK campsites ... with summer 2015 availabilityhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jul/07/top-10-uk-campsites-with-summer-availability
<p>UK camping trips are on the rise, thanks to the heatwave and crises in Europe, but there’s still time to book a pitch. From a new National Trust camp to a child-free site in Wales these 10, chosen by <a href="https://www.coolcamping.co.uk/campsites/uk">Cool Camping</a>, all have space this summer </p><ul><li><strong><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/may/23/uk-cool-campsites-camping-glamping-yurts-britain">More campsites in the UK</a></strong></li><li><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/may/04/uk-camping-sites-with-food-trucks-cafes-and-bars"><strong>UK campsites with food trucks, cafes and bars</strong></a></li></ul><p>Campers have three options at this park on Penwith peninsula: non-serviced pitches for basic camping, serviced spots with electricity and fully serviced pitches with taps, waste disposal and extra space. While the site has a large number of caravans alongside the tents, there’s ample room for kids to play and easy access from campsite to beach. Nearby Porthminster has safe bathing for youngsters, while Porthmeor is a magnet for surfers. Also, trendy St Ives is only two miles away.<br /><em>• Unserviced pitch from &pound;16 a night, semi-serviced from &pound;16.50, fully serviced from &pound;22. Adult from &pound;5.50 a night, child &pound;3, under-three free, 01736 791892</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jul/07/top-10-uk-campsites-with-summer-availability">Continue reading...</a>CampingUnited KingdomTop 10sScotlandEnglandWalesTravelFamily holidaysTue, 07 Jul 2015 04:59:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jul/07/top-10-uk-campsites-with-summer-availabilityPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: BigTom/AlamyThe grounds of Stowe House.Photograph: BigTom/AlamyThe grounds of Stowe House.Photograph: PRPhotograph: PRPhotograph: PRTrevalgan Touring Park, Cornwall<br>Photograph: PRTrevalgan Touring Park, Cornwall<br>James Warner-Smith2015-07-07T04:59:02ZIn search of Scotland’s best beachhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/may/10/scotland-beach-swimming-wild-camping
<p>On a road trip along Scotland’s north-west coast Kevin Rushby and family search for great swimming and wild camping spots – and a legendary beach, Sandwood Bay, at the tip of the country</p><p>I first heard of it many years ago while sitting on a beach in the Far East. We had palm trees, white sand and aquamarine water where turtles swam – and there was a Scotsman, freckled and sunburned, arguing that his homeland had better. “Like Sandwood Bay,” he said. “Best beach in the world – and it feels like the last one, too. It’s a hike to get there. You should make the pilgrimage.”</p><p>The name stuck in my mind and, over the years, other people mentioned the place: its legendary beauty, its wonderful isolation, and its burgeoning reputation. But it was not until I was searching the west coast for wild-swimming spots between Applecross and Cape Wrath that I found its actual location: the last splash of yellow sand before the top north-west corner of Britain, with a four-mile footpath snaking across the hills to reach it. The whole nature of the trip changed right then. We would do the pilgrimage, working our way north, searching for great swimming and wild-camping spots, and finish at the <em>ultima thule</em>, the legendary goal of wilderness lovers: Sandwood Bay.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/07/shuna-scotland-island-cottage">Shuna: the overlooked jewel off the west of Scotland</a> </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/may/10/scotland-beach-swimming-wild-camping">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandRoad tripsSwimming holidaysCampingTravelWildlife holidaysShort breaksUnited KingdomSun, 10 May 2015 06:00:06 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/may/10/scotland-beach-swimming-wild-campingPhotograph: Kevin RushbyThe view from Kevin’s camping spot at Eilean Tioram.Photograph: Kevin RushbyThe view from Kevin’s camping spot at Eilean Tioram.Photograph: Kevin RushbyA gardener working amid the midges at Inverewe Gardens.Photograph: Kevin RushbyA gardener working amid the midges at Inverewe Gardens.Photograph: Kevin RushbyA storm sweeps across Gruinard Bay as seen from the rear of Mellon Udrigle beach.Photograph: Kevin RushbyA storm sweeps across Gruinard Bay as seen from the rear of Mellon Udrigle beach.Photograph: Kevin RushbyWilf and Maddy foraging.Photograph: Kevin RushbyWilf and Maddy foraging.Photograph: Kevin RushbyOne of Achmelvich’s two beaches.Photograph: Kevin RushbyOne of Achmelvich’s two beaches.Photograph: AlamySandwood Bay is a four-mile hike from the road and a ‘legendary goal of wilderness lovers’.Photograph: AlamySandwood Bay is a four-mile hike from the road and a ‘legendary goal of wilderness lovers’.Kevin Rushby2015-05-10T06:00:06ZUK wilderness adventures: bothy to bothy in the Highlandshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/21/walking-bothy-highlands-sutherland-scotland
<p>This unforgettable three-day adventure in Sutherland, in the far north of Scotland, follows a trail between two remote bothies and then returns by boat<br><strong>• More wilderness adventures in <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/21/snowdonia-walking-adventure-cnicht">Snowdonia</a>, <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/21/sleep-in-cave-dove-crag-lake-district">the Lakes</a> and <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/21/build-driftwood-den-clovelly-north-devon">Devon</a></strong></p><p>If you’ve ever been to the Alps, you’ll know that some of the most famous walking routes there are strung between series of mountain huts – placed, ideally, in prime peak country. These continental huts may even offer a little luxury (beds with mattresses, flushing toilets, the occasional shower and even on-site catering) but we in the UK have something even better and, what’s more, completely free, with no booking required: bothies. And there are so many that you can easily string together a continental-style hut-to-hut adventure.</p><p>One of the best routes is at Kylesku: a remote fishing hamlet in Scotland’s far north, whose cluster of homes and pub traces the edge of Loch Glencoul and Loch Gleann Dubh. When you start your journey from the rough car park just north of the centre of the nearby village of Kylestrome,, probably watching one of the many local grey or common seals popping up to sneak a peek at you, you’ll write this off as an easy traverse. But don’t be fooled: the route will keep you on your toes – you’ll soon be longing for the curve of the loch to reveal itself, and dreaming about reaching that first bothy at Glendhu. You will be just about to give up hope when suddenly it will appear.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/21/walking-bothy-highlands-sutherland-scotland">Continue reading...</a>HighlandsScotlandTravelUnited KingdomAdventure travelCampingWalking holidaysBudget travelSat, 21 Mar 2015 07:00:11 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/mar/21/walking-bothy-highlands-sutherland-scotlandPhotograph: KylestromeThe route starting at KylestromePhotograph: KylestromeThe route starting at KylestromePhotograph: Phoebe Smith and Neil S PriceThe basic but brilliant Glencoul bothy.Photograph: Phoebe Smith and Neil S PriceThe basic but brilliant Glencoul bothy.Phoebe Smith2015-03-21T07:00:11ZCamping in January? Sure, go wildhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/13/wild-camping-scotland-herring-road
<p>Regular winter camper Dixe Wills finds the Herring Road, a 28-mile wind through the Lammermuir Hills, easy to get to from Edinburgh and quite clement, weather-wise, for Scotland at this time of year</p><p>I’ll admit it: going wild camping in January in Scotland does sound rather like the sort of trip that only wannabe Bear Grylls types would attempt. It conjures visions of a blizzard-stricken landscape besmirched by a lonely tent, inside which wretched campers practise Captain Oates impersonations and josh about cutting off toes with a blunt penknife.</p><p>However, it can be much more enjoyable than this as my friend, Carl, and I found as we lay snugly in our tents beside picturesque Whiteadder<strong> </strong>reservoir in East Lothian’s Lammermuir Hills. We’ve gone wild camping nearly every January for the last decade and the weather is often pretty wild (a -13&ordm;C night on a heath in Suffolk will live long in the memory), so we were pleased to find a sheltered spot just as the last light was fading. Pleasantly tired after an afternoon’s tramping over moorland, we were lulled to sleep by the wind whistling over our protective little spinney and the honk of greylag geese flapping across the water. It was an experience we enjoyed alone. Edinburgh is less than 25 miles off but the only people we saw were a couple of farmhands on quad bikes.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/jan/28/great-country-walks-hadrians-wall-northumberland">Great country walks: Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland</a> </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/nov/26/top-10-winter-camping-glamping-breaks-uk">Top 10 winter camping and glamping breaks in the UK</a> </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/13/wild-camping-scotland-herring-road">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandTravelWalking holidaysCampingEdinburghFri, 13 Feb 2015 06:00:06 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2015/feb/13/wild-camping-scotland-herring-roadPhotograph: Dixe WillsWatch Law, on the Herring Road, looking out to the Firth of Forth.Photograph: Dixe WillsWatch Law, on the Herring Road, looking out to the Firth of Forth.Photograph: Dixe WillsWild camping at Whiteadder Reservoir, Scotland.Photograph: Dixe WillsWild camping at Whiteadder Reservoir, Scotland.Dixe Wills2015-02-13T06:00:06ZTop 10 Scottish castle stayshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/aug/20/-sp-top-10-scottish-castles-budget-camping-hotel
<p>You may have to camp or self-cater, but all of these Scottish castles offer a chance to stay in splendid surrounds at (relatively) affordable prices</p><p>Blair Castle in bucolic Perthshire, the seat of the Dukes of Atholl since medieval times, wouldn’t look out of place in a Disney film. This white-turreted confection owes its good looks to a spot of Victorian remodelling. You can’t stay in the castle itself but there’s a campsite (open from mid-February to early November), a handful of luxury lodges scattered across the estate and, in a secluded spot, close to the pretty granite village of Blair Atholl, a meadow of contemporary woodland lodges. Named after the rivers on the estate, Errochty, Fender and Tilt sleep four, Tummel and Garry six. The lodges are well-kitted-out with an outdoor terrace, views of woodland and craggy hills, 40 miles of waymarked trails and a host of ranger-led activities. <br />• <em>01796 481487, </em><a href="http://www.athollestateslodges.co.uk/stay_woodland_lodges.cfm"><em>blair-castle.co.uk</em></a><em>, from &pound;275 for a four-night break in a two-bedroom lodge (sleeps 4) or &pound;320 in a three-bedroom lodge</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/aug/20/-sp-top-10-scottish-castles-budget-camping-hotel">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandBed and breakfastsEdinburghHighlandsCampingLuxury travelSelf-cateringHotelsTravelRomantic tripsCottagesWed, 20 Aug 2014 06:00:07 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/aug/20/-sp-top-10-scottish-castles-budget-camping-hotelPhotograph: PRChill Pod at Hoddom Castle Photograph: /PRPhotograph: AlamyCulzean Castle. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyCulzean Castle. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: PRBedroom at Liberton TowerPhotograph: Mark Harkin/flickr<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/markyharky/11470644786/">Photograph: Mark Harkin/flickr</a>Photograph: Mark Harkin/flickr<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/markyharky/11470644786/">Photograph: Mark Harkin/flickr</a>Photograph: PRSaddell Castle bedroom Photograph: /PRPhotograph: PRTerrace flat at Glengorm castlePhotograph: AlamyBarcaldine Castle. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyBarcaldine Castle. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: PRInside Fernie CastlePhotograph: prTorrisdale CastlePhotograph: AlamyBlair Castle, Perthshire. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyBlair Castle, Perthshire. Photograph: AlamyLucy Gillmore2014-08-20T06:00:07ZThe wilderness in comfort ... wild glamping in Scotlandhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/07/wild-camping-glamping-scotland
Wild camping in Scotland in a very well-equipped Land Rover, our writer was set on foraging for their supper. Luckily, his friend had his own ideas …<p>Our ordeal started in Glasgow. We knew we had a tough weekend ahead, with a cold front sweeping in and the wilderness awaiting. Outside Queen Street railway station, Kerry from Scotland Overland handed us the keys to our survival vehicle. There was a brief and efficient introduction to the equipment that was packed, with ruthless ergonomic logic, into the back of a Land Rover Defender. Kerry and her husband, Duncan, had done thousands of miles of expeditions in Africa to learn the best way to do this.</p><p>&quot;This is the gas-powered shower,&quot; she told us, &quot;and this is the fridge. Undo this and pull and your rooftop tent emerges. Click this and pull for your awning.&quot;</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/07/wild-camping-glamping-scotland">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandCampingGlampingAdventure travelForagingTravelFri, 07 Mar 2014 21:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/07/wild-camping-glamping-scotlandPRPeter at the campfire – the workings of the petrol stove eluded both campers initiallyPRFish out of water ... Peter with foraged crab (but Waitrose provided dinner)Kevin RushbyKevin's converted Land Rover camped by Loch Striven. Photograph: Kevin RushbyKevin RushbyKevin's converted Land Rover camped by Loch Striven. Photograph: Kevin RushbyKevin Rushby2014-03-07T21:00:00ZScottish Highlands: escaping into the wilds by canoe – videohttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/video/2013/sep/10/scottish-highlands-wilds-by-canoe-video
To explore Scotland at its most remote, load up a canoe with food and camping supplies, and paddle off alongside the mountains of Assynt in the north-west Highlands. This film, made in association with <a href="http://www.wildernessscotland.com">Wilderness Scotland</a>, shows a landscape with no road access, typically only seen by the most adventurous hikers and the occasional fisherman<br /><br />Produced by <a href="http://www.rupertshanks.com">Rupert Shanks</a>, with music by <a href="http://music.torley.com">Torley</a> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/video/2013/sep/10/scottish-highlands-wilds-by-canoe-video">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandTravelCanoeing and kayakingAdventure travelCampingTue, 10 Sep 2013 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/video/2013/sep/10/scottish-highlands-wilds-by-canoe-videoWilderness of Scotland/Wilderness of ScotlandAssynt
Photograph: Wilderness of ScotlandRupert Shanks and Torley2013-09-10T05:00:00ZCoastal campsites in the UK: readers' travel tipshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/jun/17/coastal-campsites-uk-camping-holidays
From the turquoise waters of the Isles of Scilly to the rugged mountains of Skye, there is always a good campsite near to Britain's best travel destinations <br /><br /><a href="http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/readers-tips.jsp" title="Win a Jack Wolfskin Eclipse II tent">Add a tip for next week and you could win a Jack Wolfskin Eclipse II tent worth £140</a><p>Between Exmoor and Ilfracombe, on a cliff at the edge of Watermouth Cove, this site has amazing sea and sunset views from every pitch. Its sheltered private sandy beach has beautiful clear water. It's great for walking – the South West Coast Path runs through the site, and there's a pub round the corner. Facilities are thorough and clean, and there's a play park and games room. <em>01271 862282, </em><a href="http://www.watermouthpark.co.uk/" title=""><em>watermouthpark.co.uk</em></a><em>, from &pound;5pp </em>mooncastle</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/jun/17/coastal-campsites-uk-camping-holidays">Continue reading...</a>United KingdomCampingCornwallDevonScotlandHighlandsIsle of SkyeTravelMon, 17 Jun 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/jun/17/coastal-campsites-uk-camping-holidaysPRPRGuardian readers2013-06-17T07:00:00ZTop 10 hotels, B&amp;Bs, hostels and campsites on Skyehttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/21/top-10-skye-hotels-campsites-hostels-bed-breakfast
Skye's amazing scenery deserves amazing places to stay. Here's our pick of the best hotels, B&amp;Bs, campsites and hostels<br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2013/may/21/top-10-lochalsh-hotels-bed-breakfast"><br />Top 10 places to stay in Lochalsh</a><br /><strong>• Know a great place to stay in the area? Add your recommendation in the comments below</strong><p>This purpose-built luxury B&amp;B opened in 2011 and has panoramic views over the Sound of Sleat to Beinn Sgritheall and the Knoydart peninsula. Christine and Ian fell in love with the spot so bought the plot and employed local architects and builders to create their dream home. The three rooms are plush and contemporary with tartan trim. There's underfloor heating, a sleek, Scandinavian woodburning stove in the lounge, a telescope in the garden room for spotting dolphins and seals in the waves far below, and a path weaving down to the shore. You can join them for an evening meal – or Michelin-starred <a href="http://www.kinloch-lodge.co.uk/" title="">Kinloch Lodge</a>, Lady Claire Macdonald's hotel and cookery school, is a few minutes' drive down the road.<br /><em>• 01471 833460, </em><a href="http://www.napiercottage.co.uk" title=""><em>napiercottage.co.uk</em></a><em>. Doubles from &pound;90 B&amp;B </em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/21/top-10-skye-hotels-campsites-hostels-bed-breakfast">Continue reading...</a>HotelsScotlandHighlandsBed and breakfastsUnited KingdomHostelsCampingEuropeTravelTop 10sIsle of SkyeTue, 21 May 2013 06:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/21/top-10-skye-hotels-campsites-hostels-bed-breakfastPRRubha Phoil Eco campsite is close to Armadale pier and the ferry to the mainlandPRPRNapier Cottage has has views over the Sound of Sleat to Beinn Sgritheall and the Knoydart peninsulaPRNapier CottageLucy Gillmore2013-05-21T06:00:00Z10 of the best UK campsiteshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/10-best-cool-campsites-britain
The editor of the new Cool Camping Britain guide chooses 10 of his favourite new finds in England, Wales and Scotland, all of them in stunning locations<p>Is this Britain's most scenic campsite? JRR Tolkien certainly thought so. From the grassy vantage point looking seaward to the imposing mountains of Rum, it's not hard for campers to see how the island inspired the Lord of the Rings author's fantasy landscapes. The campsite itself is as wild and wonderful as its setting. The pitches aren't the flattest and the dishwashing sink is outdoors. But if you're the kind of person who likes watching buzzards coast from the cliffs as you wash the pasta from your plate, you'll love the views from Cleadale. They are, quite simply, epic. <br /><em>• Open April-September, from &pound;5 per tent per night</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/10-best-cool-campsites-britain">Continue reading...</a>CampingUnited KingdomEnglandScotlandWalesCornwallYorkshireLake DistrictTravelWed, 01 May 2013 09:04:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/01/10-best-cool-campsites-britainPRPRPRCleadale on the Isle of Eigg … possibly Britain's most scenic campsitePRCleadale on the Isle of Eigg … possibly Britain's most scenic campsiteJonathan Knight2013-05-01T09:04:00ZWhat to do in the UK this spring: new trips, events and days outhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/16/what-to-do-uk-this-spring
With temperatures on the up, here's our pick of the best ways to make the most of the late spring, from cycling in the Lake District to sea kayaking in Scotland and wine tasting in Essex<p>The latest way for campers to enjoy the great outdoors is suspended several metres above ground –&nbsp;from the comfort of a tree tent. The Secret Campsite (01273 401100, <a href="http://http://www.thesecretcampsite.co.uk/" title="">thesecretcampsite.co.uk</a>), near Lewes in East Sussex, has added a hanging tent for two &quot;with views over the South Downs&quot; to its collection of camping &quot;shelters&quot;, which include a modern day shepherd's hut called an Arkette and a bell tent.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/16/what-to-do-uk-this-spring">Continue reading...</a>United KingdomTravelEuropeEnglandNorthern IrelandScotlandWalesCampingGlampingCycling holidaysNorfolkEssexShort breaksTue, 16 Apr 2013 14:40:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/apr/16/what-to-do-uk-this-springAndy McCandlish/Andy McCandlishKayaking in west Scotland. Photograph: Andy McCandlishPRCycling in the Lake DistrictPRWest Street Vineyard's new English Wine Barn in EssexPRIt's All Up in the Air, a sculpture by Rhona Byrne at the Norfolk and Norwich festivalPRSt Stephen’s church, North YorkshirePRSt Edmund's House, PadstowPRVarsity Hotel, Cambridge: the rooftop terrace at sunsetPRBluebells and other blooms at Bowood House and GardensPRRed Kite's tree tent in Builth Wells, WalesPRRed Kite's tree tent in Builth Wells, WalesIsabel Choat and Gemma Bowes2013-04-16T14:40:00ZLate Easter breaks in the UKhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/mar/13/late-easter-spring-breaks-uk
From feeding lambs on a Welsh farm, to Horrible Histories at Warwick castle or guided glamping gypsy-style, there are plenty of late Easter trips for those who prefer to stay closer to home<p>Among the hills and rivers of the Upper Wye Valley, just north of Rhayader, sits Nannerth Fawr Farm, a 200-acre working farm that ticks every box as far as family spring breaks are concerned. There are river and woodland walks, purpose-built cycle routes (borrow bikes by arrangement or bring your own), an outdoor play area with castle and playhouse, games room with pool and table tennis, falconry sessions (book in advance), a hide above a badger sett and lambing, which is timed to coincide with the Easter holidays so children can help with feeding. And that's just the farm itself. The farm's two self-catering cottages are fully booked over Easter but there is still availabilty in the Loft, a top-floor apartment which sleeps two but a cot bed can be booked, so would be perfect for a couple with a toddler. Plus the gypsy caravan and showman's trailer. Or, if you're feeling brave, there's the campsite. Real fires are allowed on site and you can hire camping equipment if you don't have your own. <br />•<em> The Loft costs &pound;251 for a week at Easter, camping costs &pound;5pp per night (&pound;6pp if you want a hot shower and loo). The caravan and trailer cost from &pound;202 for a two-night stay. </em><a href="http://www.nannerth.co.uk/nf/" title=""><em>nannerth.co.uk</em></a><em>, 01597 811121 </em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/mar/13/late-easter-spring-breaks-uk">Continue reading...</a>Family holidaysEnglandTravelTop 10sCampingWalking holidaysBed and breakfastsHotelsUnited KingdomScotlandWalesLate offersWed, 13 Mar 2013 14:07:21 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/mar/13/late-easter-spring-breaks-ukPRPRJohn Bradshaw/AlamyGoring Lock on the Thames. Photograph: John Bradshaw/AlamyPRPRPRThe pass of the cattle road near Cruinn Leum Round HousePRPRPRPREaster breaks ... spring lambing at Nannerth Fawr Farm in WalesPRLambing at Easter at Nannerth Farm, WalesIsabel Choat and Georgia Brown2013-03-13T14:07:21ZGo off-grid: places to stay in the UK without Wi-Fi, mobile reception or TVhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2012/aug/16/holidays-without-wifi-mobile-reception-tv
Feeling overshared and square-eyed? Unplug yourself from the modern world and enjoy a social media detox at these remote retreats without Wi-Fi, mobile phone signal or TV reception<p>Most houses are remote simply because they were built somewhere no one has thought to build anything. Purton Green, however, has achieved remoteness by having everything else around it disappear. The only remaining house of a &quot;lost village&quot;, beneath its thatched roof lurks its own grand hall dating from 1250. The village's ancient thoroughfare is now a mere footpath across fields, with the nearest road 400 yards away (a wheelbarrow is provided to ferry your luggage), so if you don't feel cut off from civilisation here, there's probably no hope for you.<br />• <em>From &pound;466 a week (sleeps four), 01628 825925, </em><a href="http://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/BuildingDetails/Overview/237/Purton_Green" title=""><em>landmarktrust.co.uk</em></a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2012/aug/16/holidays-without-wifi-mobile-reception-tv">Continue reading...</a>Rest and relaxationScotlandUnited KingdomWalesTravelShort breaksTop 10sNorthern IrelandSelf-cateringCampingHostelsBed and breakfastsThu, 16 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2012/aug/16/holidays-without-wifi-mobile-reception-tvPRPRPRNavin Mistry/AlamyRhenigidale hamlet. Photograph: Navin Mistry/AlamyPRPRPRPRPRPurton Green, Suffolk ... the only house left in the 'lost' villagePRPurton Green, SuffolkDixe Wills2012-08-16T05:00:00ZScotland's Summer Isleshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2012/may/06/travel-scotland-endless-summer
As a teenager <strong>Paul Webster</strong> spent a spectacular fortnight on the uninhabited island of Tanera Beag in north-west Scotland. Forty years later he returns …<p>For 40 years I have treasured the memory of my first experience of the&nbsp;Summer Isles. I had arrived exhausted at the harbour of the tiny village of Achiltibuie after 48&nbsp;hours crammed into a car packed with tents, waterproofs, enough food to&nbsp;last for two weeks, and a small rubber dingy. With me was a teenage companion and the expedition leader,&nbsp;a retired army colonel and family friend. Ignoring the stench of a&nbsp;dead seal lying on the &quot;harbour&quot; – in fact a&nbsp;stretch of shingle beach with&nbsp;a&nbsp;small jetty at one end – we pumped up the boat, loaded it and headed out towards Tanera Beag, one&nbsp;of the larger of the chain of mostly uninhabited islands that lie off&nbsp;the coast of northwest Scotland. As a&nbsp;mist descended and the sun set, the&nbsp;approaching island looked forbidding – dark granite cliffs topped by jagged, close-cropped hills, and a huge Atlantic swell that made the landing terrifying.</p><p>But we managed it – and there we remained for two exhilarating weeks. We ate mackerel we pulled from the sea by the bucketload, drank brown peaty water from the loch, pottered about among the islands in our boat under bright blue skies searching for seals, explored caves and tiny coves and hunted for crabs and sea urchins in the clear water. We&nbsp;saw sharks and porpoises, and one evening, as we were fishing in the fading light, a huge black shape broke the surface just yards from the dingy, accompanied by an explosion of expelled air. I&nbsp;had seen my first whale.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2012/may/06/travel-scotland-endless-summer">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandUnited KingdomEuropeTravelCampingFood and drinkSat, 05 May 2012 23:04:17 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2012/may/06/travel-scotland-endless-summerMurdo Macleod/ObserverSplendid isolation: looking out from Loch Broom to the Summer Isles. Photograph: Murdo Macleod for the ObserverMurdo Macleod/ObserverSplendid isolation: looking out from Loch Broom to the Summer Isles. Photograph: Murdo Macleod for the ObserverPaul Webster2012-05-05T23:04:17ZMy travels: Mike Carter in Cape Wrath, Scotlandhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jul/01/cape-wrath-scotland-mike-carter
At Cape Wrath, the north-west tip of Britain, the writer found wild winds, a warm welcome and a wonderful sense of calm<p>I was excited about riding towards Cape Wrath. Is there a more evocative name in Britain? I'd been slightly disappointed to learn that the name refers not to the fury of the seas that pound the cliffs, but from the Norse word <em>hvarf</em>, meaning turning place, the point where Viking warships used to turn east for home or south to the Hebrides. But still, it was a place I'd long looked at on maps of Britain and wondered what such a wild place might be like.</p><p>And there I was, two months after setting off from London on my ride around the entire British coastline, cycling alone through its majestic bleakness – that desolate wasteland, only a few living sheep and countless bleached bones, the landscape treeless, pockmarked with little oily burns that sparkled like mirrors. Beyond the land, just infinite sea and sky. The <em>Parbh</em>, as the land is known, was once home to vast numbers of wolves, and it wouldn't have surprised me in the least to have heard a distant howl.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jul/01/cape-wrath-scotland-mike-carter">Continue reading...</a>ScotlandCycling holidaysCampingUnited KingdomEuropeTravelFri, 01 Jul 2011 21:44:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jul/01/cape-wrath-scotland-mike-carterAntonio OlmosMike Carter cycled anti-clockwise round Britain's coast. Photograph: Antonio OlmosAlamySplendid isolation … Cape Wrath lighthouse, Sutherland, north-west Scotland. Photograph: AlamyAlamySplendid isolation … Cape Wrath lighthouse, Sutherland, north-west Scotland. Photograph: AlamyMike Carter2011-07-01T21:44:01ZReaders' tips: beachfront campsiteshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/13/camping-beach
<a href="http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/">Been there</a> readers reveal their favourite places to camp with your feet in the sand<p>This site is in a stunning setting at the foot of the Black Cuillins on the shore of Loch Brittle, with easy access to spectacular walking and climbing – you can spend a week or so here and never need to drive anywhere. The Talisker distillery (<a href="http://www.malts.com/index.php/en_gb/Our-Whiskies/Talisker" title="">malts.com</a>) up the glen at Carbost welcomes visitors with a tour and a dram. This is as near to wild camping as you can get while still having toilets, showers and shop. <br /><em>01478 640404, </em><a href="http://tinyurl.com/6abdwlh" title=""><em>tinyurl.com/6abdwlh</em></a><em>, adult &pound;6.40, child &pound;4.20</em><br /><strong>Anshir</strong></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/13/camping-beach">Continue reading...</a>CampingBeach holidaysFamily holidaysUnited KingdomScotlandWalesCornwallFranceItalyThailandGhanaKenyaNew ZealandTravelMon, 13 Jun 2011 08:51:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/13/camping-beachPRPRPRAlamyBlue Skye ... Camping on the beach at Glenbrittle, Scotland. Photograph: AlamyAlamyThe beach at Glenbrittle. Photograph: AlamyGuardian Staff2011-06-13T08:51:00ZReaders' writing competition: Familyhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/nov/20/readers-writing-competition-family-sweden
With so much space and snow, quaint chalets and no ski-lift queues, northern Sweden makes the ideal place for a family ski trip, says <strong>Alex Chai</strong>. And the eye candy isn't bad either <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/nov/20/readers-writing-competition-family-sweden">Continue reading...</a>Travel writing competitionFamily holidaysSwedenSkiingWinter sportsScotlandNorthern IrelandCampingWildlife holidaysTravelSat, 20 Nov 2010 00:06:04 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/nov/20/readers-writing-competition-family-swedenHenrik Trygg/Image Bank SwedenKids Åre us ... skiing in northern Sweden. Photograph: Henrik Trygg/Image Bank SwedenHenrik Trygg/Image Bank SwedenKids Åre us ... skiing in northern Sweden. Photograph: Henrik Trygg/Image Bank SwedenGuardian Staff2010-11-20T00:06:04ZGlamping in Europe's top 10 luxury campsiteshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/jul/11/nicola-iseard-top-10-europe-glamping-luxury-campsites
From <a href="http://www.ecovallee.com">a family-focused yurt holiday in France</a> to a <a href="http://ecoretreats.co.uk">therapeutic escape in a tipi</a>, here are Europe's best 'glamping' experiences <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/jul/11/nicola-iseard-top-10-europe-glamping-luxury-campsites">Continue reading...</a>CampingEuropeTravelWalesScotlandFranceSpainPortugalYorkshireSwitzerlandIrelandGlampingSat, 10 Jul 2010 23:04:08 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/jul/11/nicola-iseard-top-10-europe-glamping-luxury-campsitesRonn Ballantyne/ronn-ballantyne.comGlamour meets camping ... a yurt suite on Finca de Arrieta, Lanzarote. Photograph: Ronn Ballantyne/ronn-ballantyne.comRonn Ballantyne/ronn-ballantyne.comYurt on Finca de Arrieta, Portugal Photograph: Ronn Ballantyne/ronn-ballantyne.comNicola Iseard2010-07-10T23:04:08ZWild campers face first Scotland banhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/jul/09/wild-camping-ban-in-scotland
Vandalism and wild parties could lead to a ban on wild camping at Loch Lomond<p>Wild camping in Scotland could be restricted for the first time since the activity was legalised in 2005, if <a href="http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/plans-to-cut-litter-and-ban-camping-at-loch-lomond-1.825678" title="">a new byelaw proposed by Loch Lomond and the Trossachs national park authorities</a> is approved by the Scottish government later this year.</p><p>Although camping in the wild is not permitted in England and Wales, it was made legal across Scotland by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, which came into effect in February 2005, after campaigning by recreational groups such as the Ramblers Association.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/jul/09/wild-camping-ban-in-scotland">Continue reading...</a>CampingScotlandTravelEnvironmentLawFri, 09 Jul 2010 14:45:16 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/jul/09/wild-camping-ban-in-scotlandMurdo Macleod/Murdo MacLeodLoch Lomond from The West Highland Way, part of which would fall under the wild camping ban. Photograph: Murdo MacleodZara Maung2010-07-09T14:45:16ZSmall wonders: Britain's tiny campsiteshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/may/15/small-campsites-uk-camping
Fed up of sprawling sites that are so big you can't find your tent? Dixe Wills, author of <a href="http://www.tinycampsites.co.uk">Tiny Campsites</a>, seeks out the more picturesque places to pitch<p>Saint Paul was famously converted on the road to Damascus. My own, rather different, conversion took place a few summers ago on the road to Dartmoor. Out on a cycling tour, I had noticed on my map a beautifully situated campsite. I pedalled over one last hill after a full day on the moors, looked down . . . and my heart sank. Far from the bijou glade of my imagination, it gave the impression of having been laid out on the lines of a particularly unfortunate internment camp. With evening fast drawing on, I was about to resign myself to my fate when I caught sight of a handwritten sign pinned to a tree. It bore an arrow and the simple legend &quot;Camping&quot;.</p><p>Ten minutes later I was putting my tent up on the back lawn of a gorgeous farmhouse. Birds flitted around me, an apple tree offered the prospect of free pudding and I was surrounded on three sides by flowerbeds bursting with colour. It was heaven. From that moment on I was a believer in tiny campsites.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/may/15/small-campsites-uk-camping">Continue reading...</a>CampingUnited KingdomWalesScotlandCornwallDorsetBerkshireKentLake DistrictYorkshireNorthern IrelandShort breaksTravelFri, 14 May 2010 23:32:47 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2010/may/15/small-campsites-uk-campingPRSpyway Inn, DorsetPRSpyway Inn, Dorset.Dixe Wills2010-05-14T23:32:47Z